Millennial mom, wife, MC, fashion designer and lifestyle content creator, Tara Courtené Cannon is all about personal growth and empowering women across the country
More than 30 000 Instagram followers and 6.2 million likes on TikTok has solidified Tara as the go-to girl for content that is relatable, amusing and on trend. Starting her blog about 10 years ago, which has now translated onto an Instagram account, Tara has always authentically shared her experiences – with a little help of her husband, Wade.
From Get Ready With Me (GRWM) videos to live events and fashion tips, she has something for every South African viewer. Now a mom of two, her content is even more down-to-earth, giving us sneak peeks into her crazy life and how she copes with it. Most recently, she worked on the first Mother’s Appreciation Extravaganza event (of which ClubX was a sponsor), and this month’s second round is sure to be a huge celebration too.
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How did you get into the influencer space?
My content creation journey began when I started my online blog. I enjoyed writing and sharing with others, so that was a lovely creative outlet for me. As social media evolved over the years, so did I. Nobody was interested in reading any more… so I focused on Instagram only, which is now mostly video content. In this game, it’s so important to evolve with the times otherwise you lose your audience.
What is your favourite type of content and why?
I love making the GRWM videos or little family videos, whether it’s with my husband or cute moments with my kids. These raw and authentic videos are what captures the hearts of my audience the most. People crave authenticity because there is sometimes such a lack of it. Just being myself is relatable and people prefer that.
Where does your humour come from?
I’ve always had that quick, dry type of humour. I think it comes from me not taking everything too seriously. I love to laugh and, most importantly, it’s fun to be fun and brings others joy.
How do you feel about balancing work with motherhood?
It’s crazy! The best way to deal with it is by taking life one day at a time and having a really well-organised fridge calendar! If it’s not on my fridge calendar, it doesn’t exist, or it’s instantly forgotten.
You’re the owner of Bernali designs. Tell us more…
Bernali was a CMT (cut, make, trim business) that became a bigger brand during lockdown. It’s aimed at providing affordable and comfortable fashion to the everyday person. I disliked that some brands were so unaffordable just because of the name attached to them. Bernali is about providing affordable fashion to everyone with an expensive, quality feel.
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Do you think clothing can be empowering?
When you look good, you feel good. Dressing for your body type is very important. Dressing goes deeper than just your outer layers; it’s about great underwear that shapes you, and wearing what brings you joy. Sometimes when you don’t feel all that great about yourself, doing your hair and putting on a fit that looks great can really lift your spirits.
What are your rituals to uplift yourself?
Honestly… tidying up my home every morning and evening is one of my calming rituals. If I don’t do that, I feel unsettled. Then I have my morning coffee and we wing the rest of the day.
What do you do for fun?
I hang out with friends and family who contribute to my well-being in so many wholesome ways. When you surround yourself with positive, like-minded people, you find yourself growing in ways you never thought you could.
What’s your biggest goal for the rest of 2024?
To keep on growing and building. I’ve only just been scratching the surface of what I want to do with my life and platform. So watch this space!
Any words of wisdom to share?
Don’t be afraid of the unknown. Parenting has taught me that. Life is unpredictable – don’t get so caught up in your future plans that you forget to live in the moment.
Rapid Q&A
Pet Peeve: Loud chewing!
Signature scent: Musk
Go-to fashion staple: Bell-bottom jeans
A song you love: ‘The Best Things In Life Are Free’ by Luther Vandross & Janet Jackson.
Favourite snack: Chips
Describe yourself in one word: Multi-faceted
A quote you live by: “Just do it”
Favourite book: Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
Dream travel destination: Crete in Greece
What’s your superpower? Being able to handle it all and still wanting to do more!
Words: Charndré Emma Kippie
Photos: Supplied
